Dr. Joseph Octavius Akolgo, a lecturer at the African University of Communications and Business, has added his voice to the ongoing national debate surrounding the proper use of the title “Dr.” in Ghana. This follows a directive by the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) instructing Hassan Ayariga, founder of the All People’s Congress (APC), to cease using the title, as it was awarded through an honorary doctorate rather than formal academic study.
Speaking in an interview on A1 Radio, Dr. Akolgo clarified the long-standing confusion between academic doctorates and honorary ones. He emphasized that the use of the “Dr.” title should be strictly reserved for individuals who have completed a rigorous academic program and earned the degree through recognized scholarly achievement.
“If one wants to use the title ‘Dr.,’ one should have earned it academically,” he said. “An honorary doctorate is entirely different from an academic one. It often becomes embarrassing when individuals carry themselves as doctors when the title is merely honorary.”
His remarks support GTEC’s position on upholding academic integrity in Ghana by preventing the misuse of academic titles. GTEC recently cautioned Ayariga, stating that his use of the title “Dr.” was misleading, as his honorary doctorate does not reflect academic qualifications.
Dr. Akolgo reiterated that the title should reflect professional credibility and scholarly competence.
“Before one can be called a ‘Dr.’ or use the title, one must have academically worked for it professionally,” he noted.
The GTEC directive has ignited broader discussions on the legitimacy of honorary degrees in Ghana and their place within academia and public discourse. Many academics and education stakeholders have expressed support for the commission’s stance, arguing that honorary titles, while prestigious, should not be confused with earned academic credentials.
Critics of the misuse argue that allowing honorary degree holders to present themselves as doctors undermines the credibility of Ghana’s tertiary education system and disrespects those who have undergone years of research and academic toil.
As the conversation continues, Dr. Akolgo’s intervention underscores the importance of protecting the sanctity of academic titles and ensuring that only qualified individuals bear the distinction of being called “Doctor.”
The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission’s firm stance may set a precedent for stricter enforcement of title usage in Ghana, promoting clarity and trust in academic qualifications.
Source: A1radioonline.com|101.1MHz|Moses Apiah|Ghana
